Sunday, October 16, 2011

{ CONGRATULATIONS J & M }

Happy Halloween everyone - and more importantly CONGRATULATIONS to Jesse and Melinda who have won the wedding of their dreams in Utah!  Each couple was equally as deserving and we are happy to help J&M move forward toward wedded bliss.  As the plans come along we will update you on their progress.

Jesse and Melinda

Friday, October 7, 2011

{ WEDDING GIVEAWAY & AN UPDATE! }

We are so excited about our exclusive Mormon Bachelorette Wedding Giveaway, but time is running out. One lucky couple has the chance to win an entire wedding package valued at over $30,000, but you need to submit your video to us by October 15th to be eligible for the prize of a lifetime. Forgot the details? Click HERE for a refresher on how to apply.


And speaking of weddings, we thought we'd give you a little update from our favorite Mormon Bachelorette Season One couple Matt & Aubrey Laidlaw with a little peak into their wedding day and exclusive update from the happy couple. If this doesn't inspire you to enter the TMB giveaway, we don't know what will!

{ video credit :: ryan southwell films }

Hey there TMB! Aubrey (and Matt) here! We hope you haven't completely forgotten about us as you've enjoyed watching Season 3 of TMB with the lovable Ashley Chapman. Can you believe it's been one whole year since we started this crazy journey together? Sometimes it blows our minds to think of all the many blessings we've received in these last 12 months. An engagement, a wedding, new home, AND a baby? We truly have so much to be thankful for!

{ photo credit :: elovephotos }

Recently we found out that our wee-one on the way is a GIRL! We are both so excited to welcome her into our home and feel like January can't come soon enough. We've been busy with nursery plans, getting ready for baby showers, and adjusting to all the changes a newborn will bring. We're truly so grateful for all the wonderful things that have come into our lives, thanks to The Mormon Bachelorette, and hope to continue to share more good news in the months and years to come!

Monday, September 19, 2011

{ SEASON THREE FINALE }


In Ashley's Words:

I truly cannot express enough gratitude and thanks to all those who have helped me throughout this incredible experience. First to Erin Elton, Tristen Ure, and Aubrey Laidlaw for giving me this opportunity. Thanks to Denver Porter for his help in creating my application video – that man can make anyone look good! Check out the project that he’s been working on at www.e3imagine.com. I am grateful for Brad Burnham’s willingness to do my headshots – I am a huge fan of his work! Check it out at www.bradburnhamphotography.com. I cannot thank our incredible film crew enough for the countless hours they have put into this project.

I am so blessed to have the best family and friends you could ask for, who have helped carry me through this intensely wonderful experience. I especially owe a shout out to my Mom and Dad, each of my siblings, and many other friends who have sent me supportive notes, given me phone calls to check in, and have given me love and advice through it all (you know who you are!). I have so enjoyed receiving facebook messages and seeing comments from people who I do not know, but who have given me encouraging words and have often come at just the time that I needed them. Thank you for enriching my life.

I of course cannot neglect thanking my Father in Heaven for his infinite wisdom in placing me in the situations that have guided my life, that have pushed me to my limits of both sorrow and joy. He has brought me into touch with so people who have shown me how to be a better person, how to have faith and belief that no matter what, things will work out as they should. “Come what may, and love it” – Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin.

I am forever changed by The Mormon Bachelorette. Thanks for joining me on the journey.

{ WIN YOUR DREAM WEDDING!!! }

FIRST EVER TMB WEDDING GIVEAWAY!!!


Join us at 5pm PST as we find out the ending of Ashley's love story
In the meantime the TMB Wedding Giveaway is here!


Getting married to the man/woman of your dreams in Utah?  You deserve your dream wedding to seal the deal! The Mormon Bachelorette has teamed up with the best of the best wedding vendors in Utah to turn your dreams into reality.  Here is how it works:
  • Apply here to enter the giveaway - deadline October 15th, 2011
    • Each Couple must submit a video (no more than 3 minutes) that will be posted to The Mormon Bachelorette - tell us your love story and why you should win the wedding of your dreams in Utah
    • Admission is FREE!
  • From October 16th-October 30th the voting begins - the couple that gets the most votes wins the dream wedding!  Be creative in rallying voters - you can use any method you want to promote your video.
  • On October 31st we will announce the lucky couple that wins The Mormon Bachelorette Wedding Giveaway 2011
  • TMB will be there on your special day to capture the magic and feature your wedding on our site 
So spread the word, get your videos in and get ready for more True Mormon Love!

The Vendors:


Reception Venue, Caterer, Wedding Flowers
White Willow is Utah Valleys Premier Reception and Events Center 
Where Every Event is Customized to Fit Your Dreams


Wedding Day Photography
Creating Memories


Wedding Flowers - Bouquet, Bridal Party, Reception
Jolley's Flowers with head designer, Rachel Osguthorpe, have the experience to create an outstanding and beautiful enhancement for your big day.  We will work closely with you in design, color and display to make your wedding a truly memorable occasion.  If you can dream it . . . we can create it!
www.jolleysgifts.com

Wedding Dress and Tuxedo Rental
We Have the Perfect Dress for Your Perfect Occasion


Bridesmaids' Dresses

Engagement Photos
Amanda Castleberry Photography wedding and portrait photographer


Wedding Photographer
Julie Lafferre Wedding Photos
www.julielafferrephotography.com


Wedding Video
Wedding Videos That Will Melt Your Face
www.collinkartchnerstudios.com


Wedding Invitations
Personalized Wedding Invitations Designed to Fit Your Personal Style


Wedding Cake
Wedding Cakes that Taste as Good as They Look, Serving the Wasatch Front for 20 Years


DJ
Entertainment At It's Best Since 2004




Bridal Make-up
Freelance Makeup Artist


Bride and Bridal Party Hair
Premier On-location Hair and Make-up Artistry since 2004
www.signaturebrides.com


Bridal Eyelash Extensions
Customized Eye Lash Extentions That Turn Drab to Fab in Less Than 2 Hours
www.glamlash.com


Painting of the Bride and Groom
Personalized Paintings To Capture Your Love Through Generations

We can't wait to watch your love stories unfold!  Questions?  E-mail Erin, Aubrey and Tristen at: themormonbachelorette@gmail.com




Thursday, September 15, 2011

{ Post Date Interview #2: ASHLEY & RUDD + voting + TMB Wedding Giveaway }

Now that Ashley has finished the last of her 8 second dates who will win her heart? The Season Three finale will air this Monday, September 19th. Until then vote for who you think Ashley will choose as her man! Will it be Jace? Aaron? Brad? Erik? Rudd? Pete? Mike? Alex? We will know soon!


In the meantime the first ever Mormon Bachelorette Wedding Giveaway will take place starting on September 20th - starring YOU! TMB has teamed up with the best of the best wedding vendors in the state of Utah to give away an entire wedding to the winning couple (valued over $30,000!). From September 20th-October 15th we will be taking applications from couples that want to win their dream wedding in the state of Utah.  Each couple will need to submit a video about how they met and their love story which will be posted on TMB.  Voting will start on October 16th-30th and the lucky couple with the most votes will be announced on Halloween!  More details to come tomorrow morning - until then spread the word!!!

And... Here's RUDD!!!

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

{ Second Date: ASHLEY & RUDD }


In Rudd's Words:

Who needs the make a wish foundation when you've got Ashley Chapman. My dreams came true when Ashley asked me out on a second date. I was sure thankful that I was at the end of the first round so that I didn't have to wait very long for the second round to start. My deepest appreciation goes to Erin and Tristen for their tremendous logistics abilities in getting me where I needed to be. Another huge thank you to Mesa's real men Lee and JR for taxi services and hotel accommodations.

My date was supposed to go down on Saturday, late morning where I was to meet up with Ashley and the Crew in Black Canyon Springs. An hour or so later we pulled up to Slide Rock Canyon above Sedona. Its always interesting to go to a new spot, but then mix that with a new person and then stir in a camera on you at all times and you've got an interesting situation. I figured the best thing to do would probably be to take off my shirt. The Go-Pro camera was a great addition to our date, the question is that as I was getting tossed in the water if I got my good side or not? There were some cliffs that provided me with some prime spots to do my best George of the Jungle impersonation.

Hunger set in so we found some delicious food at Oaxaca(wa-hoc-a). The restaurant name is actually best pronounced if you have a lot of saliva in your mouth. Ashley and I shared some Flautas and huevos rancheros and Ill let you guess who ordered what. There was no dessert at this meal but I was ok with that seeing that the conversation was pretty sweet.

The drive back was for the most part in the dark. No one snored on the ride home, thank goodness, but needless to say there wasn't a whole lot of conversation either.

At one point of the date I found myself wondering if I had more sparks with Ashley or with the Creative Director Luke (in a platonic way of course) They were soo much fun to work with and had some great ideas as to shots and even different ways to find a reason to hold Ashley's hand. We even did improve music videos for crying out loud.

So back to Ashley...she was exhausted the poor girl. At the end of our first date I thought that there was some spark. I guess the way I understood it was by the fact that Ashley and I didn't feel any kind of personal bubbles, especially at the end of the date. This time around I thought the same thing could happen at the end but that vanished into thin air when I realized she was sailing at half mast well say.

I stratigized with Luke as far as camera set up went and decided that I was going to invade the Ashley's bubble and see if she backed away. Eye on the prize, eye on the prize I repeated to myself. As we conversed I referred back to a compliment she had paid me earlier in the day and used that as a little creative foreshadowing we'll call it. And before she or I knew it I had tripped right into her lips. The fourth of July came about a month late for me this year.

Monday, September 12, 2011

{ Second Date: ASHLEY & AARON }



A BIG thanks is in order to Jason Cooley at Freedom Boardshop for coming out on the lake with Ashley and Aaron to throw down some sick tricks and give really good tips and advice. Not to mention the t-shirt that is now Ashley's favorite t-shirt ever. Shop Freedom Boardshop for awesome boards and apparel. 


When I got the call from Ashley for a second date I was pretty relieved that she did. I mean I had made a pretty confident prediction that I would get a asked for one... period. Needless to say I was excited to drive out to Arizona (this time with a fully functional air conditioned car).

When I walked up to the door fro the second date with Ashley I was pretty excited. I didn't know what to expect, I just knew we were gonna have a fun time. She greeted me with a kind smile and great hug. She had told me to dress for something in the water but I had no idea what we were going to do. We started to drive to a board shop, and in my mind a board shop was for skateboarding. Little did I know she was taking me wake boarding! I never grew up really close to a lake and I rarely ever went out on a boat so I was totally floored by the idea of it, not to mention that we got to see up close a two time national champion wake boarder throw down some pretty awesome tricks. When it came our time to get in the water i had a blast, i even learned how to wake surf so that was pretty cool as well.

Ashley looked so comfortable out on a wake board and when she wake surfed. Every time she was ready to board she would say "hit it" and the song "It takes two" came in to my head and i told the crew they should put it on our video. What i like about Ashley is how she is up for almost anything and likes to try new things and different adventures. Being on a boat with Ashley was really fun. Not to mention she looks really good on a board and while she was on the boat... if you know what i mean ;)

Ashley and I got to see what each other were like in a different environment. Second dates are usually more that way. The ice has been broken and your personality comes out a little more, especially when you are doing something together that you really enjoy. Getting to know her better and talking in the car on the way to the lake was really enjoyable. She is really easy to talk to and likes to joke around a lot. I can see that we have a lot in common in not taking things too seriously and going with the flow, be able to adapt to new situations and being comfortable in those positions.

Dinner after boarding was amazing. Authentic Mexican food is probably 70% of my diet. Living in southern California we have some of the best Mexican food there is but Arizona can boast that as well when Ashley took me to this place with Mexican hot dogs. It was really good and I need to find a place out in California that has those.

The night was filled with good times, good conversation, and good food. Ashley knows how to treat a man right. I like her, but with me it is too early to tell if i will get a potential 3rd date but i would be more than happy to be with Ashley. Living in another state does make things difficult so it would be the hardest hurdle to jump if things were to happen between us.

PS what happens off camera, stays off camera... you know what i mean.

{ Post Date Interview #2: Ashley & Brad }

Friday, September 9, 2011

{ Second Date: ASHLEY & BRAD }


A BIG big thank you to Chris and Joe at Western Destinations for a true western adventure for Ashley and Brad. These legit cowboys know how to show you a great time in the wild west! They have all sorts of activities to choose from.


In Brad's Words:

Things started out rough. I've never gotten up so early for a date in my entire life! I went to her house around 4am. I was really tired and quite worried that I was going to be sleepy for our entire date. I had no idea what was in store for me. We started off with a three hour drive, which at that hour, is brutal! Actually, I really do like road trips when the company is good, and she kept me awake. She really is pretty entertaining.

We drove out to the middle of the desert and met up with some cowboy. He was a total character. When we pulled up, he was sitting in a folding chair, right beside his truck. Oh, and he was playing the harmonica. Classic cowboy move.

As soon as he saw Ashley, he jumped up, and shouted a good "HOWDY!!!". We all jumped. He stood up, hurled his chair through the air, and started walked towards us before it had time to land in the bed of his truck. We got a good laugh out of that. Right then, I knew we were in for a good time.

Then the cowboy took us to his ranch. It was awesome! He explained that we were going to have a few competitions. That was music to my ears. I am always up for some good competition. One thing that I really like about Ashely from our first date, was how competitive she was with basketball and skeeball, so I knew this would be good. Life is much more fun when you have someone that can challenge you.

Our challenges included tossing hatchets at some wooden signs, and shooting clay pigeons and cans. We taught those cans a lesson or two about being shot. We even had to do the old fashioned stand off/show down to see who could "draw" first, and shoot the other person.

I thought it was a great date for us. Since we only get one date (2 if you're lucky) we have to spend some quality time together. I really liked Ashley's ability to just have fun. I wish we had more time to really get to know each other. As it is, we were just able to scrape the surface. If this is that last time I go out with Ashley, I will be disappointed. The one problem I foresee with Ashley, is that I fear that my life style is a little too different from hers, and what she wants in a guy. As a filmmaker, each movie is like starting a new business. That takes a lot of work. I am afraid that she would kill me if she had to start putting up with my crazy, ever changing schedule. But who knows… Maybe she will grow to love it!

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

{ Second Date: ASHLEY & JACE }


A HUGE thanks to Melanie and Rachel with Freestyle Dance Company for choreographing a great routine for Ashley and Jace. If you live near the San Tan Valley you should definitely take a class!


In Jace's Words:

After a nice flight from desert to desert, I was greeted at the airport by Ashley. Once again I came with some flowers. However, this time they were a little different. I brought turquoise roses. She thought they were her BYU blue; I thought they matched my shirt perfectly. Interesting how that worked. We had a few good laughs over that. She also had a few things for me. One of them was a package of Mike n Ike's, which represented some things (inside jokes perhaps) from our first date. I was very impressed. I've always been a guy who likes the little things/details and Ashley is very good at doing the little things.

Soon we were on our way. We drove for quite a while to Joe's Farm Grill for dinner. During the car ride we discussed work, politics, and sports. We also had a little discussion about what I thought we were doing for the date. I like surprises, but the suspense was killing me since I was told what to bring a few days beforehand, but I was not informed about the details of the date. She told me to bring basketball shorts and a t-shirt. What could that possibly mean? I thought well maybe she wants to try her luck on the basketball court with me again. Or perhaps we're going to play her game, football. Or better yet, maybe she is taking me to a hip-hop dance club in an attempt to see if I'm really as athletic as she is. I didn't figure that out until we pulled up to the club and saw the sign, but I'm sure she enjoyed watching me as I attempted to figure it out.

We were greeted at Joe's Farm Grill by Joe himself, which was quite a treat. Being in business, it's always fun for me to meet the owner because they are usually the most passionate about the business and can answer all your questions. We had a great conversation with Joe about his farm and his businesses. It's common food done uncommonly well at Joe's Farm Grill. As we waited for our food, Ashley and I were able to take a walk through part of the farm. There was a little hand holding which was great. After our walk we ate at a table Joe had prepared for us with a centerpiece. Our food was delicious. I think we ordered just about everything on the menu. Halfway into dinner we noticed that it became very dark outside. A giant monsoon came through which was really cool because that was something I had never seen before. After dinner we were on to the activity.

As we left Joe's, Ashley told me we were in for another long drive to our activity. She told me we were going to Queen Creek. I don't know the Phoenix Valley super well, but I had never heard of Queen Creek so I figured it was pretty far. Driving thru the desert in a monsoon wasn't quite the way I had pictured seeing the outskirts, but it was kind of fun. As we arrived at Freestyle Dance Co., we were greeted by one of Ashley's college hip hop friends. She and her sister had a choreographed routine for us to learn. I love to dance, but I am by no means a dancer. I thought to myself that this was really going to challenge my abilities. I just hoped I wouldn't embarrass Ashley or the show. We had a great time learning the routine and performing it. After we were finished, I had the great treat of watching a video of Ashley when she was in college as a hip-hop performer. She probably wouldn't admit it, but she is a great dancer.

After she showed me up on the dance floor, we drove back to Mesa. Once we arrived in Mesa, it was time to say goodbye to Ashley. She had been giving me good signs all night for great doorstep scene if you know what I mean. We had great conversation, held hands, and she cuddled up to me a time or two while we were walking. I gave her a chocolate kiss on our first date so I thought it would be extremely appropriate to conclude the evening with a different type of kiss. The play by play from my perspective goes like this. We pull up to the house, I get out of the car and walk over to her. Our eyes meet as we embrace and we chat and tell each other how much we enjoyed the evening. Then the magic occurred. We kissed. It was a great end to a great date.

Monday, September 5, 2011

{ Second Date: ASHLEY & MIKE }


A BIG thanks to Bondurant Racing School of High Performance Driving for sponsoring Ashley and Mike's date. For an unbeatable driving experience, book a class. Shifter Kart classes available.  


In Mike's Words:


As I have come to experience, second dates are usually better than first dates, and this date proved no different. In fact, activity-wise this was probably the best date I’ve ever been on. Ashley knew I’m a big car guy, and she organized the perfect date for me. She left the day’s plan as a surprise and we quickly embarked to meet some sort of deadline. On the way over we just so happened to drive head first into a sandstorm of epic proportions. People were pulling off onto the shoulder of the highway, as if in a crippling snow blizzard or something. As soon as I saw the sign of the facility (Bondurant Racing School) I knew what we were up to, and I couldn’t have been more stoked to get out there and get in a car. Suddenly the recommended attire of “levis, close-toed shoes” started to make sense.

Here in Utah one of my favorite things to do is to take my car out the Miller Motorsports Park road course for a day on the track. However, I haven’t been able to go out for the last 2 years because my track car has been in pieces. This was an awesome opportunity to get some seat time, and see if Ashley really can put up with my passion for cars and racing (I swear I’m not as 1-dimensional as it seems ha.) Out on the autocross course she not only put up with my enthusiasm, she got a little over-enthusiastic herself, knocking over more than a few cones and powersliding through the corners! There’s something to be said about a girl that can drive, and drive well (and even prefers a manual); definitely an attractive attribute. After our own escapades on the autocross course, they took us out for a hot-lap on the big road course in a track prepped Corvette with a professional driver. I saw my life flash before my eyes, as I’m more comfortable in the driver’s seat, but that truly was an incredible experience. I’m always game for an adrenaline pulsing adventure, and the crew at the Bondurant Racing School were impressive and such great hosts.

Still reeling from the driving school, we headed out to what Ashley self-proclaims as “the best sushi place ever.” Conversation on the date was flowing naturally, and it seemed like now that we were past some of the ‘first date formalities’ that we had some familiarity to go on. The specialty sushi rolls (that some of Ashley’s friends actually helped the owner name) were indeed incredible, and this really was the best sushi I had ever had (in my limited sushi house-ing experience)! The date ended well, with a nice hug and a positive vibe all around. Good eats, good people, and sharing a unique experience with someone who appreciates it; you can’t ask for much more.

Friday, September 2, 2011

{ Second Date: ASHLEY & ERIK }


A HUGE thanks to Mark at SkyDive Phoenix for sponsoring Ashley and Erik's second date.  If you want some free falling adventure please visit them at www.skydivephoenix.com


In Erik's Words:

After my first date with Ashley I wasn't really sure how I was feeling about her even though I had a ton of fun and really respected this girl. So when I got her call asking me for a second date I was up for it because I knew we would have fun but I wasn't necessarily feeling it. The height thing bothered me a bit too but I think Ashley is really cute and that wasn't necessarily a deal breaker. So I decided to give it a shot and come back out to AZ for Round 2.

Skydiving was AMAZING! I was really impressed that this girl had thought of a date that not only fit my personality but helped us get to know each other even better by taking some risks. I am kind of an adrenaline junkie so I had a blast.

After the date I realized how comfortable I felt around Ashley. She is a girl that I really admire and have a lot of fun with, although I didn't feel enough to see things working out in the end. I hope that we can continue to build a strong friendship and that she finds the man of her dreams through The Mormon Bachelorette. I was hopeful I would find love through this journey with Ashley but I don't think it was meant to be.

{ DownEast Basics Giveaway Winner! }

Congratulations Kathryn Gourley Robinson!  You have won our DownEast Basics giveaway!  You will look beautiful in your new dress!  Visit DownEast Basics to check out the latest modest trends for this Fall.


Tune in again tonight for Ashley's 3rd Second date.  Who is still in the running to capture our Bachelorette's heart?  Only time will tell...

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

{ Second Date: ASHLEY & PETE - and DownEast GIVEAWAY }

DownEast Basics GIVEAWAY!
We are excited to welcome DownEast Basics as a sponsor of The Mormon Bachelorette.  We are even MORE excited to send our lucky giveaway winner any clothing item of your choice from the DownEast Basics website HERE.  The winner will be announced before Ashley's third second date posts on Friday at 5pm PST so you have until then to enter and get your name in the drawing as many times as possible.  Here is how it works:

To enter the giveaway:
1. Comment on this blog post below
2. "Like" DownEast Basics Facebook Page HERE
3. Upload a photo of the DownEast Basics clothing item you want to win on their Facebook Page wall

To have your name entered into the drawing more than once:
1. "Like" The Mormon Bachelorette Facebook Page HERE
2. If you have already liked our page, leave a comment on the wall
3. Follow our Twitter handle @mbstaffers


Also - A huge thank you to Mike and Jeff from AZ Hummer Tours for an incredible extreme desert tour!  They are the #1 rated attraction in Phoenix by TripAdvisor for a reason. They’re the nicest guys around that deliver an unparalleled experience. Check them out at: www.azhummertours.com

In Pete's Words:

As I was just waking up some weekday morning, I noticed a text from Ashley. It was sent at the early hours of working folks, a little bit before I would be awake. She wanted a second date, and I said, “Why not!?”. I wasn’t given a lot of detail at that point but I was told to be ready for a great time. As my friends will tell you, I almost always am.

The day for the date arrived. The journey from Tucson, though perilous, was accomplished easily that day. As I arrived I noticed Ashley smiling from ear to ear and this put me in good mood. I decided then that I would give my all in this date and do my best to make it fantastic fun. I started out really flirty with Ashley; that’s my style on a second date when I know a girl is awesome. It worked pretty well. We had lots of time to talk as we made the hour long drive to Peoria to venture into the desert wild, on a sturdy Humvee steed. It was a little weird as she drove and was in control of the date, a role reversal for sure.

Quickly we met up with our guide and I laid eyes on the Humvee, this was an impressive machine. In addition, our grisly guide could not have looked more authentic. We hopped in and took off. Needless to say this off-road vehicle was capable, but the best feature of all was probably the bench seat on back where we rode. Just like the song says, “Stick shifts and safety belts, bucket seats have all got to go…”. She sidled up next to me on the drive and it was a good opportunity for some more intimate chatting.

The desert toys did not disappoint. We rode on the back of the Humvee up and down trails and got to cruise around on our own personal off road vehicles for a bit. That was awesome! I couldn’t deny Ashley’s driving skills. I’m not sure she’s ready for the rally car circuit, but she was good! The day turned to dusk and we headed for pizza at the Mellow Mushroom pizza café. The name was misleading, but the pizza was delish. Ashley and I got the chance to break it down some more and chat like crazy! She got to hear a few more accents and a couple more random accounts from my storied past. Dinner couldn’t have been better.

As we started the drive home Ashley was exhausted. She started driving but I could tell she was pretty sleepy. I got a small “knight in shining armor” moment when we pulled off the highway and I took over so she could rest. Ha ha, she fell fast asleep! A bad sign for most dates but I chose not to take it that way. Ashley was comfortable enough with me to just relax and rest, and I took that as a positive. We arrived home and it was time for goodnight. What a great date, what a great girl! I had an experience I couldn’t have predicted after our first date, and I’m glad we both took the chance. It was nice that we used teamwork to get home safe, and I was starting to see a relationship growing that might have some momentum. I guess we’ll see…

Monday, August 29, 2011

{ Second Date: ASHLEY & ALEX }

Erin Elton here - we are thrilled to feature Ashley's Second Date picks starting with Alex Dayton tonight!  There is also much to be excited about in the next few weeks - for the first time EVER we are doing an entire Wedding Giveaway! If you or someone you know is getting married in the state of Utah, or you think you are going to get married at some point in your life, pay attention in the next 2 weeks! Details to come...

We also want to congratulate BRAD JOHNSON who won the popular vote for a Second date!  We are looking forward to his Round Two date with Ashley and considering his popularity on TMB, we assume you are too:).

Also on Wednesday we will be featuring a giveaway from one of our title sponsors, DownEast Basics. Visit their website here and pick out your favorite item you want to win, save a picture of it on your computer, and get ready for details Wednesday.


A big thanks to DownEast Basics for sponsoring Alex and Ashley's second date.  Visit their website here to check out the latest trends in modest fashion, including the swimsuit Ashley wore tonight, the Malibu Swim Skirt and Tropical Tank.

In Alex's words...

I was excited to see Ashley again for a second date. I was especially relieved that I didn't have to plan it this time. After all, our first date was so serendipitous that I wouldn't want to test fate twice by planning it myself. Unfortunately Ashley’s elaborate plans fell through and things didn’t work out quite like they had on our first date. She had intended for us to have a private session at the Flowrider, an artificial wave that you surf, but it broke that day. Ashley came up with a backup plan that ended up being better in my book. I just wanted something low-key and relaxing. That's exactly how it turned out.

Ashley lined up a Vespa for us to borrow from her friend Stacy Zimmerman. I picked her up and drove us to De la Cruz Bistro for dinner. The Vespa ride provided a good excuse to have her arms around me. I liked it. Dinner conversation was good. I saw again the reasons that Ashley intrigued me on the first date.

I was happy to get back on the Vespa for a ride to Ashley’s former Bishop’s house. Despite the warm weather, riding around was really fun. The pool, tramp and a little put-put at the Bishop’s house were just perfect.

I enjoyed spending time with Ashley again. I like the way she lives, it really fits with how I live; down to how she is with her money. I was impressed. She’s cute, she gives a good hug, I even like her hands. She’s nice to hold. On our first date when the film crew wasn’t around we danced in the park for a few minutes. She moves well, she just fits. Ashley is the kind of girl that deserves the best things that money can't buy.

At the end of the date I found myself wanting to take this girl out again and again. I am not sure how confident I feel about having a serious relationship with Ashley but I hope she chooses me in the end so we can continue to see where this goes. I really like Ashley.

Friday, August 26, 2011

{ Time To Vote! }


Round One is in the books! Ashley and her 22 Bachelors have gone on their first dates and Ashley's second dates will air this Monday, August 29th. Over the next few days we will be taking a poll for your favorites so far - who do you think Ashley should choose? We want to know! Polls close at midnight this Sunday, August 28th.

{ Post Date Interview ASHLEY & RUDD }

Thursday, August 25, 2011

{ DATE #22: Rudd Hopkins }


I feel like I’ve kept things together pretty well throughout the Mormon Bachelorette, despite the late nights, demanding schedule, and ups and downs of dating put on steroids. But tonight I kind of had a breakdown. As I was getting ready, I moved some things on my bathroom counter, to make room for my makeup artist to set her stuff. Suddenly I heard something hit the floor and shatter. To my horror I looked down and saw my Venetian glass ring that I had bought in Austria just a few weeks before, now sitting in pieces. I had been planning to wear it that night, and I was so incredibly sad to see my momento from Europe now ruined. I couldn’t just go buy a replacement. I yelled out loud “Oh come on, you gotta be kidding me! Dangit!” It truly is not normal for me to have outbursts like that. I quickly realized that my bedroom door was open, and I knew that they had let my date into the house to avoid the heat and was downstairs waiting. I was mortified at the thought that this reaction would be his first impression of me, and knew that I would have to be sure to explain myself.

We quickly cleaned up the mess, finished getting me ready, and then sent my date back out the door. When I opened my door and saw Rudd Hopkins standing there, I knew I was in for a fun evening, and also felt very relieved that it was someone I knew that had heard my yelling and would therefore hopefully not be as quick to judge me for it. I made sure to explain the situation to him and he was perfectly understanding. I had met Rudd about a month before at the Huntington Beach Mid-Singles Conference (yep, at 27 you count for Mid-Single…). My buddy that I had driven out with is friends with Rudd and so he had introduced us. At that time I learned that Rudd is a fun loving guy, who can be a bit goofy, but who has a heart of gold.

Rudd’s personality came shining through right from the start. When we pulled up to his friend’s house where we’d be making dinner, he told me not to get out of the car. He then jumped out of the car and ran around to my side to open my door which just made me laugh. Laughter always helps lighten the mood and lifts the soul and I appreciated the gesture. Showing his perfect gentlemanliness, he offered me his arm as we walked. Rudd is incredibly thoughtful, as was evidenced by the fact that he had brought two aprons from California for us, and one was a Flirty Apron for me. It was really very cute and it helped me feel all girlie. The kicker – it would have perfectly matched my glass ring...How’s that for irony? We laughed about it together.

If you think Rudd looks familiar, it might be because he took Aubrey on a date on Season 1. Their date was on a Sunday, so Rudd was wearing his distinctive bow tie, and they made a fabulous looking meal. Knowing this, I figured that I was in for a treat with whatever we’d be making. Rudd did not let me down, with a Thai chicken pizza and a shrimp pesto pizza recipe for our brick oven pizzas that we were going to be making. We had a ton of fun making the pizzas, however, we didn’t exactly make them as we should. It seemed we hadn’t been given proper instruction. It really wouldn’t have mattered that we messed up the pizzas a bit, except that we were supposed to take some of them to neighbors in the area. The family whose house we were using is actually really well known in their neighborhood for their brick oven pizzas, and so there was a certain standard that we needed to live up. Fortunately, the neighbors were very gracious and grateful for the food no matter what condition it came in.

I loved that Rudd had determined a way for us to do some service on our date – rather than just feeding ourselves and calling it good. It’s very reflective of who Rudd is and how much he values people and looks to their needs. Rudd’s thoughtfulness was further showcased in his planning for the date when we had a violinist to serenade us over dinner. What a splendid experience! Our violinist was very talented.

I thought the meal was great, but Rudd had another surprise – home made vanilla ice cream with apple pie and strawberries mixed in. This stuff was really really great. While we ate, Rudd shared some quotes with me, and scriptures. He is incredibly knowledgeable in the Gospel and knows a millions quotes such that he can pull the perfect one from his memory bank at just the time it is needed. It really is incredibly impressive. This was a side that I had not had the opportunity to learn about when I first met him in California.

So not only does Rudd have this deep side to him, he’s extremely light hearted. He’s a little bit of a kid with the things he’ll do to get a smile and a laugh. Admittedly, sometimes I find it cute, other times I don’t so much. I’ve said for a long time that every guy, no matter how “cool” they seem on the surface, is a dork underneath, and it’s just a matter of whether you find it annoying, or endearing. With Rudd, I’m not quite sure yet which it is for me. I would need more time with Rudd to figure that out. But it’s time that I’d be willing to give.

{ Post Date Interview ASHLEY & ALEX }

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

{DATE #21: Alex Dayton }


I loved the earrings I got to wear tonight from Ryan Amelia Design. They’re cute pink roses and they’re easiest to see on the post date interview so you’ll have to make sure and watch that tomorrow.

Tonight changed my life. I will forever be indebted to The Mormon Bachelorette and my dates for many reasons, and tonight was one of those. But it will take a minute to get to that part...

I actually started the evening with a videographer from ABC news following me as I got ready for the date and asking me a few questions. ABC was going to do a news spot on TMB, which we’d already done with a couple of TV stations, but they were taking a different angle on it. Rather than focusing on me and the fact that I was going out with 22 guys to find love, they were more interested in the fact that there was a show built around the endeavor. Given that ABC carries The Bachelorette, I think the station was just really intrigued by this kind of “spin off”. I was happy to see that our incredible production crew was getting some attention and getting interviewed as well. They have done so much work on the show, and they deserved some spotlighting too!

Once I got to open the door and meet my date, Alex Dayton, something told me that I was in for an unusual night. We started out with dinner at Oregano’s Pizza Bistro which is a very popular local restaurant. I have to say, I’ve never been a big fan, but I was actually converted tonight by the Big Beefstro Salad. So I might finally understand what the big deal is with Oregano’s. But the more important part was the conversation with Alex. I was having a hard time getting a read on Alex. He was pleasant, and he was flirty. But it seemed like he would tell me one thing, and then counter it just a few minutes later. I couldn’t quite tell when he was joking or when he was being sincere. It was very clear that he was being honest when he talked about the fact that he likes attention. Many people would knock this as a bad quality. I think that any character trait can be a flaw if you let it be. But if you are aware of the things that you desire in life, then you can take that and figure out how to achieve it through your work or your social interactions. You can also work on balancing out the need with something that is more productive or rewarding. So, I give Alex props for being self aware, and being honest. Conversation was flowing easily through dinner and I was having a good time.

Alex was being very mysterious about what we’d be doing after dinner. As we drove to our next stop he took a call from someone. “Yeah, we’re really close. We’ll be there in just a minute.” Apparently we were meeting someone. But as we pulled up to the East Valley Institute of Technology campus, I was even more baffled as to who we’d be meeting there and for what. We walked in and sat down in the back of an auditorium. On the stage was a banner for “Young Women’s Conference: Time to Blossom”. I had heard of this conference. I also noticed singer Alex Boye on stage, who I am a fan of (if you haven’t seen his “I’m a Mormon” video yet, it’s great. Watch it HERE). He was telling an inspiring (and hilarious) story about giving the Book of Mormon to Prince Charles. After the story he began singing. Suddenly I thought I heard Alex sing my name. Before I could determine if I was going crazy or not, he sang it again. The next thing I knew he was walking down the aisle toward me. Alex Boye brought me and Alex Dayton on stage and Alex Dayton actually recited a poem to me. Now, we had a mishap with the production crew getting separated from us, and so they weren’t actually in the room when this happened. The conference was filming though, so they caught it on camera. If you want to see it, watch THIS video. As you can see in the TMB video, Alex Boye actually brought us on stage again at the end and I was given a bouquet of beautiful red roses from Alex Dayton. I felt very undeserving of the attention, but it was magical nonetheless. Talk about a once in a lifetime experience.

The girls in the audience went crazy over Alex Dayton. It was so cute. At the end he and I walked around meeting some of the girls and Alex gave roses to some of them. In a world that so often can seem bleak for the future, with youth who are lazy, choosing to be immoral or dishonest, etc., here were hundreds of young women, who were making good choices and it showed – through their modest dress and their shining countenances. They truly glowed with the Spirit and I was so impressed by each one! I loved talking with several of the girls, including a beautiful young lady named Brinley. She was sharp, kind, and confident in who she is. After talking with the girls, we were able to talk with the Co-Founder of Time to Blossom, Debbie Forrest, and some of the speakers, Vivian Cline and John Bytheway, along with John’s wife, Kim. Each of these individuals are incredibly inspiring people. I really mean that. You can read about each one by clicking their names in order to understand why. I have listened to talks from John Bytheway for years, and there have been many instances where I heard him say exactly what I needed to hear, exactly when I needed to hear it – some of the tender mercies of the Lord in my life. John truly is one of my heroes and I felt tremendously honored to meet him, and his beloved wife, Kim, that he talks about in so many of his talks. Speaking with Debbie, Vivian and Kim, they gave me wonderful advice on dating, love, and faith. I just continued to feel buoyed up by the Spirit that was there in our conversations.

After the conference Alex took me for ice cream at Dairy Queen that we ate in the park. It was nice to be able to talk with him some more, and learn more about who Alex is. We also talked about what an amazing experience the evening had been. Perhaps the craziest thing of it all was that Alex didn’t have any idea what we’d be doing for our date when he got on the plane that morning. But once he ran into Alex Boye on the plane, everything just fell in to place. Sometimes life works out that way.

I feel bad that most of this blog has been about everything and everyone but Alex, but tonight was about so much more than just Alex. I feel so incredibly blessed and I feel changed after tonight. I have Alex to thank for that which does actually say a lot about him. I’m still very unsure about Alex though. I just can’t quite put my finger on how I feel about him. Perhaps time will tell.

{ Post Date Interview: ASHLEY & ADRIAN }

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

{ DATE #20: Adrian Harris }


I wanted to start my post today by acknowledging one of our premier sponsors, Good Frau - Personalized Paper Products. Emily makes the most beautiful invitations and cards! You can visit her site here for all of your invitation needs - wedding/shower, birthdays, baby announcements and even wall art.

Going into this, I assumed that most of my dates, if not all, would be men that I had not previously met. So you can imagine my surprise when I found a familiar face on my doorstep. I was happy to see Adrian Harris, a baller from Sacramento that I had met about a month prior in Huntington Beach. I immediately knew it was going to be an enjoyable evening with Adrian by my side. And by baller, I can verify that he is a basketball star that knows how to get it done. I’d also been witness to his football abilities on the beach – this boy’s got skillz.

It was great to catch up with Adrian on the happenings in his life as we drove to the Cheesecake Factory. Over dinner I really enjoyed exchanging stories with him about traveling, college, and BYU football games. Each story gave a little window into who Adrian is and what he’s all about. We spent some time reminiscing on our freshmen year at BYU because though we lived in different dorms, we were there the same year and we had some friends in common. It’s always a joy for me to walk down memory lane to that part of my life. Never had I met so many great people in such a short time as when I lived in the dorms. To this day many of those people are still my close friends who have continually inspire and support me.

As we discussed Adrian’s experience with the process for the show, I learned that he had driven here all the way from Sacramento, and that he had stayed up until the early hours of the morning in order to make his application video. I was impressed and extremely flattered by his willingness to give it all for the date. I think that’s very indicative of Adrian and his approach to everything in life. He’s going to give all of his efforts to anything that he values. I know that he will be fully dedicated to a relationship and marriage. In a world of so much uncertainty, that kind of security is extremely desirable.

After a delicious piece of cheesecake we were off to the activity for the evening. I’d been told to bring a swimsuit and towel but still didn’t know what it would be for. As we drove west on the 60 I had my suspicions that we were heading to the local water park, Sun Splash. I was excited when we pulled off at Country Club Drive as this confirmed my thoughts. Though I’ve lived here for four years I’ve never actually made it to Sun Splash; pathetic, I know. So I was stoked at the opportunity to play in the waterpark with Adrian.

We easily agreed on our first ride of choice – the Sidewinder half pipe! We’d both ridden similar rides at other parks but this one looked especially good. Adrian had never ridden one going backward so I let him take the front seat. We plummeted down the incline and I felt that exhilarating moment of fear, when you think that you just might not survive the experience, only to quickly reach the bottom and then fly up the other side of the pipe. Given the fact that you drop 5 stories, I’m pretty sure that anyone would be a little nervous about the initial drop…

Adrian and I wanted to bring the audience along for these great rides and so we took turns wearing a Go Pro camera that was strapped onto us. I’ve always loved watching extreme sports on TV and getting the bird’s eye from one of the riders, which is exactly what you can accomplish with a Go Pro. It was funny to have people look at us and wonder why we had a camera strapped to our chest, but it was worth the inquiring looks to get the footage!

After the Sidewinder, next it was on to the Master Blaster, an actual roller coaster water slide. What an amazing innovation! We had a good ride, but at the end as I bailed off the tube into the pool, I think my exit led to Adrian getting fully dunked! I felt horrible. But Adrian just smiled and we laughed together. He’s got a great ability to laugh it off.

My first impression of Adrian in Huntington Beach was only confirmed on our date – he is a solid member of the church who knows how to work for what he wants. He showed me even more resolutely just how considerate and thoughtful his is. And I saw just how much fun he can be. But to be honest, after I’d spent some time with Adrian in Huntington when we’d met, I had put him in “the friend zone”. There’s not necessarily a solid rhyme or reason to it, but I just wasn’t really interested. I’m sure you’ve been there before where the guy or girl has everything on the “must have list”, and even has some of the “nice to have extras” like looking really good in a swimsuit (yes, Adrian certainly has that going for him!)…but for some reason the interest just wasn’t there. I was open to it during our date, and tried to see if I couldn’t find a spark in my heart, but I don’t think it every really came. I wish that it would have.

I had actually had a really hard day before our date, and I could not have had a more perfect date than Adrian that night. Since he was a friend, I was able to talk openly with him. I even cried a little bit in front of him…not a normal occurrence for a first date (or any subsequent date usually) by any means. But he was perfectly supportive and made me feel a lot better. I truly feel that Adrian was supposed to be my date that night. He was my angel that I needed right then. Adrian is a total catch and he’s going to make some special girl very, very happy.


{ Post Date Interview with ASHLEY & ERIK }

Monday, August 22, 2011

{ DATE #19: Erik Gagon }


By now I’ve explained that I’m very open to guys with different physiques and looks. However, the one thing that I’ve always struggled with is height. I hate to admit this, but it’s just my hang up – we’ve all got them, right? I’ve dated a couple of guys in the past that were my height, or even just a tad shorter. They were amazing, great guys and we dated for some time, but in each case it hasn’t worked out, and it has been somewhat related to the height. Not exclusively, but it was a factor. I’m open to the fact that maybe someday it will work though. My matchmaker, Miss Tristen Ure (a.k.a. The Mormon Matchmaker) knew this was a growth opportunity for me, and so she sent me on a date with Erik Gagon, knowing that he is shorter than me. I can tell you that the height actually really didn’t bug me. Part of it for me, is that as a girl you want to feel feminine, petite, and protected. So typically a guy that is bigger than you helps you feel that way. Erik has thick, broad shoulders, a striking jaw and just really manly features that helped me still feel feminine by comparison. He’s certainly stronger than me!

I definitely find Erik attractive. I know that when his application video was posted he was tagged as being the most handsome applicant. I think the fact that his mom is Brazilian contributes to his striking looks. One of my favorite features though is actually his voice. There’s just something about it that I find really appealing, but I don’t even know quite how to articulate why. I said on Mike’s post date that I don’t normally notice eyes, which is still the case, but Erik’s caught my attention as well. It wasn’t the color though, it’s just that he always has this sparkle in his eyes. They go well with his big smile that instantly warms you up to him.

When we got into the car (a nice big Suburban that all of the crew piled into), Erik informed me that we were heading off to Payson, to go hiking and cliff jumping in Box Canyon. Based on what I’d been told to wear I had suspected that it would be something like this and was thrilled at the idea! The sad thing was that Erik explained that the original plan was to go skydiving. Yes, you read it right, Erik was going to pay for us to both go SKYDIVING! I’ve never been but have wanted to for a long time. Unfortunately I’d only taken a half day off of work, not a full day, and so we couldn’t fit it into the time. I was bummed, but was super impressed just by the fact that he would have been willing to do that for me – without even knowing me.

As we drove for a little over an hour to Payson, I continued to be impressed by Erik. He didn’t serve a mission until he was 23. My brother-in-law once told me that any of the guys that served in his mission and had left later than age 19, were super solid in their faith. They had obviously not gone just because they were supposed to. They had each made a decision to go of their own free will. Now, this is not to say that missionaries at 19 didn’t make that decision as well and aren’t just as faithful, but it seems even more fail proof for those that go later. As we talked about his true conversion to the Gospel and his faith, I could tell just how sincere he was. He really opened up and we were able to talk about a lot of personal spiritual experiences and thoughts that we wouldn’t normally share during a first date. But I felt like I could trust Erik completely. It was a wonderful feeling and interchange.

The time in the car flew by and the next thing I knew we were in Payson and ready to go hiking. The difficulty was that we’d gotten a call that day from a radio station, KTAR 620 AM who wanted to interview us. They wanted to meet us back in Mesa and in order to do so we had to really rush. So if you feel like we’re trucking up the path in the video, it’s because we were! We didn’t have time to get to the biggest jumps, which was too bad. Erik is extremely brave and I’m sure he would have done the biggest cliffs. But we only had time to do a small one (that I wasn’t willing to jump off of, given how shallow it was), and then one other. We made the best of the short time though. Erik was fun and flirty with me, splashing me with water, and we dunked each other a couple of times. He showed off his strength by effortlessly heaving me up on his shoulder. Everything about the day was just so enjoyable so far! But, it was time to get back down to Mesa.

Erik had brought his brother-in-law along as a tour guide, since Erik had never done the hike before. In order to get us back to Mesa faster, his brother-in-law offered to drive (he wouldn’t be distracted with chatting it up with a date). So Erik and I got to climb in the very back of the Suburban. I’ve never been chauffeured on a date before but this turned out to be a great setup! We were able to just talk and laugh. Part of the time I had to reapply makeup and try to make myself look somewhat presentable again in order to be ready for the interview. Yes, it was on radio, but I didn’t want to look haggard after being in the water. Add to that the fact that my next date was picking me up RIGHT after I would be getting home, I had to take advantage of the time. Erik was so nice to not feel slighted while I multi-tasked with putting on makeup and chatting. He was actually really sweet to tell me that I looked good no matter what.

The interview was a great experience. The interviewer has said it would only be 5-10 minutes but we ended up talking with him for an hour! He just found the whole concept and our faith so fascinating and kept asking questions. He was actually a really interesting guy and I wished that we’d had more time to talk and get to know him, but by now we were running really short on time! Erik did so well with the interview though. He gave honest and sincere answers and was well spoken. I was really glad that he was my date that got to do the interview with me. He helped me feel relaxed and able to really enjoy the experience.
I’m a big fan of Erik. I think he was a fan of me too…hopefully so because I’m feeling pretty good that Erik’s going to get an invite back for a 2nd date. I just hope he would accept!